CSA - Canals connected in the Cotswolds

Over the last couple of years CSA have been heavily involved with the Cotswolds Canals Connected project. This exciting project aims to restore existing waterways, linking the River Thames to the River Severn. The works will enable navigation by canal boats by restoring as well as building new sections, whilst also reinstating tow paths for visitors to enjoy.

CSA worked very closely with the Canals Environment Manager and engineers from Stroud District Council to re-establish this important link from Whitminster (in the west) to Ocean Bridge, near Stonehouse (to the east). The work has included a whole mile of excavation and rebuilding where the canal was formerly filled in to construct the M5 in the 1960’s. CSA worked with specialist associates to carry out surveys for water vole and otter, with the team also surveying for badgers and bats along several miles of canal, River Frome and connected ditches – much of the work undertaken in kayaks and waders.

Extensive restoration of the old canal has been undertaken, creating new habitat for water voles and other wildlife. This complex project began back in early 2021, with much of the smaller scale work being completed by willing volunteers, for example clearing vegetation and installing new fully accessible surfaced tow path for the public to enjoy.

CSA Director, Adian Marsh comments, “CSA are privileged to have been involved with this significant canal conservation project which will have so many benefits, including those of biodiversity, landscape, recreation and amenity value. This has been a truly collaborative project involving the local authority, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and volunteers.

“It’s great to be working on flagship projects on your own doorstep. Whitminster and Stonehouse are just a short trip down the M5 from our offices in Brockeridge Park, so we remain ideally placed for further phases of work on this exciting project.”